Michael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

I agree with the Deputy. There were two elections in Kenya and Georgia over the Christmas period which were of great interest to our Department. Due to the uncertainty regarding the timing of the Kenyan elections, its long history of political stability and the short notification we received, it was decided that the elections in Georgia would be prioritised. The election results in Georgia were also challenged by the Opposition.

We had ten short-term observers and one long-term observer representing Ireland during the election mission. Given the recent events in Kenya, I hope that my Department will ensure Irish participation in any future EU election observation mission to that country. I agree with the Deputy that we must take this matter further. I would be glad to hear his views on observing elections.

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